Non-ionic thickeners for pigment compositions, in particular for paints and applications thereof

ABSTRACT

The invention relates to the use of a compound with an alkylene oxide chain as a thickener of aqueous compositions, containing a filler and/or pigmented, white or colored, with the aim of supplying pigmentary compositions for paint which provide excellent pigmentary compatibility and a high viscosity at small and medium shear stress gradient. 
     The invention also relates to the said non-ionic thickener as well as the aqueous composition, containing a filler and/or pigmented, white or colored, containing same.

TECHNICAL SECTOR OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to the technical sector of pigmentary compositions and in particular pigmentary compositions for paints and similar compositions, and still more precisely the pigmentary bases for paint intended for colouring.

TECHNICAL PROBLEM POSED

In the field of many pigmentary compositions, but more especially in that of pigmentary compositions and bases for paint, the Theological profile of the composition or of the base plays a part, the base being the white-coloured aqueous composition containing a filler, the base of the coloured or pigmented pigmentary composition.

This white-coloured aqueous composition, containing a filler and/or pigmented, is formed from a liquid phase which can be water or an organic solvent miscible with water or else a mixture of the two, one or more polymers in suspension in the liquid phase called “binders”, fillers and/or pigments, at least one dispersing agent for the fillers and/or pigments which can be a hydrosoluble polymer or hydrosoluble copolymer, additives as diverse as coalescence agents, biocides, antifoaming agents or others, and finally at least one thickening agent which is a natural or synthetic polymer or copolymer.

The rheological profile is well known to persons skilled in the art, and is represented by the curve of the viscosity η as a function of the velocity gradient D.

Without duplicating what is known to persons skilled in the art, it will be indicated quickly that: η(Pa·s)=Stress(Pa)/Gradient D (s−1)

The stress is a measure of the pressure applied to the composition or to the base (unless specifically indicated, the term “composition” will be used in the following to designate any composition, or any base for paint or the like, which is aqueous, containing a filler and/or pigmented, as defined above).

In the field of paints, the following must be obtained simultaneously (which represents the major difficulty):

-   -   good “dynamic” performance, that is to say low viscosity at         large gradient (which in practice represents the requirement of         low viscosity at application of the paint on the substrate, the         application naturally implying a high shear stress)         and     -   good “static” performance, that is to say under storage         conditions, which in practice amounts to desiring high viscosity         (and other desired “in the pot” properties) which provides good         storage and “pot life” conditions at small or medium velocity         gradient.

One important quality of white pigmentary compositions is judged when, precisely, its coloured pigmentary component is added to it. As a general rule, the intensity of the colour of the composition is increased when the pigment concentration is increased.

However, a significant problem appears in the presence of shear stress, that is to say very precisely under the conditions of application of a paint to its substrate, since a dissociation of the pigment or pigments from the remainder of the composition can occur. Persons skilled in the art call this characteristic “colour acceptance”, which here will be called “pigmentary compatibility” of the composition concerned.

In practice, if the final paint composition (and/or the base for paint referred to as “white base” since it does not yet contain the coloured pigment or pigments) has an inadequate pigmentary compatibility, application will bring about a dissociation or heterogeneity of the composition, and therefore different colour density areas, for example streaks which are less dense in terms of colour, which is obviously not the aim sought.

The invention therefore aims to propose white bases and/or pigmentary compositions for paint (together below, including in the claims, as already indicated, “compositions”) having very good compatibility with the pigmentary colourants, on both matt paints and silk finish paints.

The invention aims in particular to supply compositions which provide excellent pigmentary compatibility and have a high viscosity at small and medium shear stress gradient also referred to as velocity gradient, on both matt paints and silk finish paints, that is to say in particular in a field of velocity gradient D lying between:

-   -   0 and 20 s−1 approximately (“small” velocity gradient)         and     -   100 s−1 approximately (“medium” velocity gradient).

White bases contain, as known to persons skilled in the art, fillers such as carbonates, in particular calcium carbonates, a titanium oxide, kaolin, and well-known similar fillers, usable according to the invention.

Pigmentary colourants are also well known to persons skilled in the art, and are for example chosen from amongst carbon black, phthalocyanine blue, iron oxides (which give yellow, red. etc tones), and diazo salts.

The carrying out is also known of a simple and practical test, referred to as a “test of rubbing with the finger”, known to persons skilled in the art by the term “rub out” which will be used hereinafter. This test correctly reproduces the shear stress brought about by application with a brush or the like.

The test consists of applying a coat of paint to a substrate with no shear stress, that is to say slowly and with no stress, and then of applying shear stress by a rotary movement of a finger applied to the said coat of paint.

If the composition has a good or very good pigmentary compatibility, the colour intensity on the area rubbed by the finger will remain constant or “homogeneous” compared with the non-rubbed area; in the contrary case, the rubbed area will have a heterogeneity of colour intensity compared with the non-treated area.

This heterogeneity will be expressed by a colorimetric difference measured by means of a spectrocolorimeter called Spectro-pen™.

PRIOR ART

To date, compositions effective at small velocity gradient are known, but in acrylic copolymer chemistry, referred to as ionic thickeners, as opposed to the so-called non-ionic thickeners.

Their major drawback is the fact that the formulation must be made at a pH higher than 7 since the acrylic thickeners must be neutralised in order to be effective.

Another drawback lies in the fact that the introduction of the said acrylic thickeners into an aqueous paint reduces the water resistance of the said paints.

Yet another drawback is the fact that these products have a low propensity for spreading, which is obviously a serious drawback in the field of paints and similar products.

Finally, the acrylic associative polymer type products are highly sensitive to salts. Polyurethane thickeners are also known which make it possible to obtain, in an aqueous paint, high viscosities at large velocity gradient but which are not capable of developing high Brookfield™ viscosities.

Generally these products are functionalised with short hydrocarbon chain ends, that is to say ones having fewer than 14 carbon atoms. These compounds have the advantage of retaining a certain pigmentary compatibility but do not allow high Brookfield™ viscosities to be obtained at small shear stress gradient.

Moreover, polyurethanes developing high Brookfield™ viscosities at small shear stress gradient are known (Synthesis and Characterization of Model Associative Polymers, Richard D. Jenkins, David R. Bassett, Cesar A. Silebi and Mohamed S. El-Aasser, J. of Applied Polymer Science, vol. 58, p 209–230 (1995); Polymeric Mat. Sci. and Engineering, vol. 59, p 1033 (1988); Polymeric Mat. Sci. and Engineering, vol. 61, p 533 (1989); Polymeric Paint Colour Journal, vol. 176, n° 4169, p 459 (June 1986)).

It has now been demonstrated that the greater the increase in the number of carbon atoms present in the hydrocarbon chains functionalising the polyurethane chains, the greater the increase in the Brookfield™ viscosities at small shear stress gradient.

These said polyurethanes, providing high Brookfield™ viscosities at small shear stress gradient, have the major drawback of dramatically reducing pigmentary compatibility in the aqueous formulations into which they are introduced.

As it has been said, the invention aims in particular to supply compositions which provide an excellent pigmentary compatibility and have a high viscosity at small and medium shear stress gradient, on both matt paints and silk finish paints, and do not have the drawbacks connected with the use of so-called ionic acrylic copolymers, namely the obligation of making the formulation at a pH greater than 7, their low water resistance, or their low propensity for spreading, or finally their very high sensitivity to salts.

The invention therefore aims to solve a particularly difficult problem often encountered by the user.

There therefore exists an important and recognised requirement for non-ionic thickeners which would make it possible to prepare “compositions” (in the general sense given above, and especially white bases, in particular for paint) having simultaneously a high Brookfield™ viscosity at small shear stress gradient and an excellent pigmentary compatibility, on both matt paints and silk finish paints.

At present no product exists combining these two qualities simultaneously on both matt paints and silk finish paints.

As will be seen below, the invention not only provides a solution to this problem, but in addition proposes thickeners which are better thickeners than those of the prior art.

The invention relates in its general principle to molecules which are thickeners having the above properties, and which are of the type of a polymer with an alkylene oxide chain, in particular an ethylene oxide (EO) chain or an ethylene oxide and propylene oxide (PO) chain, characterised in that they are based on polyisocyanate units and in particular diisocyanate units and have, at the chain end, hydrocarbon groups themselves having at least three aromatic cycles, substituted or not.

Of course thickeners having hydrocarbon groups at the chain end are already known, these groups having fairly large chain lengths and sometimes aromatic or cyclic groups, but the invention has been able to define the above selection criteria.

These thickeners are non-ionic.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates in particular to thickeners fitting the formula (I) below: R—O—(OE)_(x)—(OP)_(y)—(OE)_(z)—O—DI—(—PEG—DI—)_(n)—O—(OE)_(x′)—(OP)_(y′)—(OE)_(z′)—O—R′ in which:

-   DI is a diisocyanate group such as toluene diisocyanate, isophorone     diisocyanate or hexaamethylene diisocyanate; -   PEG is a polyethylene glycol group of molecular weight ranging from     6,000 to 20,000; -   n is between 1 and 40; -   x, z, x′, z′ are between 1 and 40; -   y, y′ are between 0 and 40; -   with x+y+z+x′+y′+z′ between 2 and 80.

According to one preferred embodiment, the molecular weight of the PEG is between 6,000 and 15,000, preferably close to 10,000.

According to yet another preferred embodiment, n is close to 1.

According to yet another preferred embodiment, x+y+z+x′+y′+z′ is between 2 and approximately 50 with y=y′=z=z′=0.

According to one altogether preferred embodiment, x=x′=1.3.

According to one altogether preferred embodiment, n=x=x′=1 and y=y′=z′=0.

R or R′ are hydrocarbon groups having at least three aromatic cycles, substituted or not, and are different or identical.

It should be noted that the associative polymers, known in the prior art, are not suitable: for example, a product functionalised with a group having 8 carbon atoms, which is a pure associative, certainly gives a suitable pigmentary compatibility, but it is not a suitable thickener, and by a long way, at small or medium shear stress gradient.

Furthermore, if an attempt is made to increase the chain length beyond 8 carbon atoms, the viscosity at small or medium gradient is indeed increased, which was foreseeable, but the pigmentary compatibility is progressively lost.

The invention therefore carries out a selection which is well defined in terms of both chemical definition and surprising properties.

According to one preferred embodiment, the R group will be a tristyrylphenyl (TSP) group with formula:

with x+x′+y+y′+z+z′ between 2 and 80.

According to another preferred embodiment, the R group will be a distyrylphenyl (DSP) group with formula:

According to yet another embodiment of the invention, the R group is substituted.

The substituents of the R group are preferably chosen from amongst the following groups: phenyls, benzyls or alkyls, linear or branched, having any number whatsoever of carbon atoms.

According to yet another preferred embodiment, the said substituent or substituents are disposed on the aromatic groups, themselves possibly substituted.

According to one altogether preferred embodiment, one of the phenyl groups of the TSP group is itself substituted by at least one phenyl group.

One advantageous case according to the invention is the one where one of the styryl groups of the TSP group is itself substituted by a styryl group, the R group then being a tetrastyrylphenyl group.

The case where the TSP is substituted on a phenyl by a cyclohexanyl group has already been mentioned above.

The invention also relates to the use of the compound according to the invention as a thickener of aqueous compositions, containing a filler and/or pigmented, white or coloured.

Finally, the invention relates to aqueous compositions, containing a filler and/or pigmented, white or coloured, containing the thickening compound according to the invention.

The thickening compound according to the invention is introduced into the said compositions at the rate of 0.1% to 2.0%, preferentially at the rate of 0.2% to 1.0%, a quantity expressed as a percentage by dry weight with respect to the total mass of the composition.

The aqueous compositions, containing a filler and/or pigmented, white or coloured, according to the invention are characterised in that they contain the thickening copolymer according to the invention, preferably at the rate of 0.1% to 2.0%, and very preferentially at the rate of 0.2% to 1.0%, a quantity expressed as a percentage by dry weight with respect to the total mass of the composition.

In the field of paints, the Brookfield™ viscosity measurements, well known to persons skilled in the art, are commonly used.

The measurements at “small” shear stress gradient correspond to velocities of the apparatus set at 10 and 100 revolutions/minute.

These various Brookfield™ viscosity measurements are performed after 24 hours of storage at rest, 1 week of storage at rest and 1 month of storage at rest.

Measurement of the Stormer viscosity (expressed in Krebs Units “KU”) is also used. These measurements are also well known to persons skilled in the art. This Stormer viscosity applies to the measurements at “medium” shear stress gradient.

Industry is interested firstly by a viscosity as high as possible at small shear stress gradient (pot life), and low at large gradient (application). The most important measurement will therefore be the Brookfield™ viscosity at 10 revolutions/min.

However, for certain special paints, it is advantageous to have a Stormer viscosity as high as possible (therefore at medium gradient).

The aqueous compositions, containing a filler and/or pigmented, white or coloured, according to the invention are characterised in that they contain the thickening copolymer according to the invention, preferably at the rate of 0.1% to 2.0%, and very preferentially at the rate of 0.2% to 1.0%, a quantity expressed as a percentage by dry weight with respect to the total mass of the composition, and in that the value of the sum of the notations (ΔE_(matt)+ΔE_(silk)+η_(matt)+η_(silk)) is greater than or equal to 3 and very preferentially equal to 4, with the following notations, namely:

for the matt formulations; the values:

-   -   +1, if the Brookfield™ viscosity after 24 hours (denoted         η_(matt)) at 10 rev/min. is greater than or equal to 3,000         mPa·s,     -   0, if the Brookfield™ viscosity after 24 hours (denoted         η_(matt)) at 10 rev/min. is between 800 inclusive and 3,000         mPa·s exclusive,     -   −1, if the Brookfield™ viscosity after 24 hours (denoted         η_(matt)) at 10 rev/min. is less than 800 mPa·s, and     -   +1, if ΔE_(matt)<1     -   0, if ΔE_(matt) is between 1 and 2 inclusive     -   −1, if ΔE_(matt)>2         for the silk finish formulations, the values:     -   +1, if the Brookfield™ viscosity after 24 hours (denoted         η_(silk)) at 10 rev/min. is greater than or equal to 2,000         mPa·s,     -   0, if the Brookfield™ viscosity after 24 hours (denoted         η_(silk)) at 10 rev/min. is between 800 inclusive and 2,000         mPa·s exclusive,     -   −1, if the Brookfield™ viscosity after 24 hours (denoted         η_(silk)) at 10 rev/min. is less than 800 mPa·s, and     -   +1, if ΔE_(silk)<1.5     -   0, if ΔE_(silk) is between 1.5 and 3 inclusive     -   −1, if ΔE_(silk)>3

The determination of the value of Delta E (ΔE) of the matt or silk finish coloured aqueous formulation is performed by addition, to the white base, of 5% by weight black pigment, that is to say 10 g. of black pigment (COLANYL™ Black marketed by CLARIANT) in 190 g. of white paint.

This ΔE measurement test is the one already aforementioned and called “test of rubbing with the finger”, known to persons skilled in the art by the term “rub out”.

This test consists of applying with no shear stress, by means of a filmograph, 150 micrometers of the formulation of the coloured matt or silk finish paint to be tested onto a contrast card, that is to say slowly and with no stress, and of waiting 45 seconds and then applying shear stress by rubbing, with the finger, the still viscous film of paint, for thirty seconds in any place whatsoever.

After drying of the film, the colorimetric difference between the shear-stressed area (rubbed area) and the non-shear-stressed area (area of the non-rubbed film), determined by means of the spectrocolorimeter called Spectro-pen, makes it possible to evaluate (value of ΔE) whether or not the paint composition tested has a good pigmentary compatibility.

The invention will be better understood from a reading of the following description, and the non-limiting examples below.

EXAMPLE 1

The aim of this example is to reveal the Theological and pigmentary compatibility properties provided by the thickening agents according to the invention for matt formulations for paint, with solvent and at constant dosage.

These formulations for paints comprise the ingredients and additives listed in the first part of Tables 1a, 1b and 1c constituting the white base, and which persons skilled in the art will recognise.

In this first part of Tables 1a, 1b and 1c:

-   -   COATEX P 90 designates a polyacrylate type dispersant marketed         by COATEX under the name COATEX P 90.     -   Byk 034™ designates an antifoaming agent marketed by BYK.     -   Monoethylene glycol is a coalescence agent.     -   The product Mergal K6N™ designates a biocide agent marketed by         TROY.     -   The product TiO₂ RL 68 is a titanium oxide marketed by         MILLENNIUM.     -   The product Hydrocarb™ is a known fine filler of the natural         CaCO₃ type, marketed by OMYA.     -   The product Durcal™ is a coarser filler, also known, of the         natural CaCO₃ type, marketed by OMYA.     -   Rhodopas DS 910™ is a styrene-acrylic binder marketed by RHODIA.     -   The product “White spirit” is a well-known petroleum fraction         which has a solvent function.

For each test, preparation was carried out of the aforementioned matt paint formulation, into which the thickening agent to be tested is added.

Then, for each of the tests, the Brookfield™ and Stormer viscosity measurements of the formulation obtained are carried out.

These Brookfield™ viscosity measurements are performed, by means of an RVT type Brookfield™ viscometer equipped with the appropriate mobile, on each of the samples representative of the different tests after 24 hours of storage at ambient temperature (denoted viscosity T=24 h), after 1 week of storage at ambient temperature (denoted viscosity T=1 week), after 1 week of storage in an oven at 50° C. (denoted viscosity T=1 week 50° C.), after 1 month of storage at ambient temperature (denoted viscosity T=1 month), and after 1 month of storage in an oven at 50° C. (denoted viscosity T=1 month 50° C.).

The Stormer viscosities expressed in Krebs Units (KU) are determined by means of a Stormer viscometer.

In the second part of Tables 1a, 1b and 1c, entitled pigmentary compatibility, the L and Delta E results appear.

L determined by the use of the Spectro-pen™ spectrocolorimeter measures the whiteness of the formulation applied on the contrast card. The closer the values get to 100, the poorer the compatibility is. This value appears only by way of illustration.

Test 1:

This test illustrates the prior art and uses 0.57% by dry weight, with respect to the total weight of the formulation, of a well-known polyurethane based on the condensation product of an alcohol having 16 carbon atoms, toluene diisocyanate and polyethylene glycol of molecular weight equal to 10,000.

Test 2:

This test illustrates the invention and uses 0.57% by dry weight, with respect to the total weight of the formulation, of a compound with formula (I) in which:

-   DI is isophorone diisocyanate; -   PEG is a polyethylene glycol of molecular weight equal to 10,000; -   n=1; -   x=x′=1; -   y=y′=z=z′=0; -   R=R′=TSP.

Test 3:

This test illustrates the invention and uses 0.57% by dry weight, with respect to the total weight of the formulation, of a compound with formula (I) in which:

-   DI is isophorone diisocyanate; -   PEG is a polyethylene glycol of molecular weight equal to 10,000; -   n=1; -   x=x′=1.3; -   y=y′=z=z′=0; -   R=R′=TSP.

Test 4:

This test illustrates the invention and uses 0.57% by dry weight, with respect to the total weight of the formulation, of a compound with formula (I) in which:

-   DI is isophorone diisocyanate; -   PEG is a polyethylene glycol of molecular weight equal to 10,000; -   n=1; -   x=x′=5; -   y=y′=z=z′=0; -   R=R′=TSP.

Test 5:

This test illustrates the invention and uses 0.57% by dry weight, with respect to the total weight of the formulation, of a compound with formula (I) in which:

-   DI is isophorone diisocyanate; -   PEG is a polyethylene glycol of molecular weight equal to 10,000; -   n=1; -   x=x′=15; -   y=y′=z=z′=0; -   R=R′=TSP.

Test 6:

This test illustrates the invention and uses 0.57% by dry weight, with respect to the total weight of the formulation, of a compound with formula (I) in which:

-   DI is isophorone diisocyanate; -   PEG is a polyethylene glycol of molecular weight equal to 10,000; -   n=1; -   x=x′=25; -   y=y′=z=z′=0; -   R=R′=TSP.

Test 7:

This test illustrates the invention and uses 0.57% by dry weight, with respect to the total weight of the formulation, of a compound with formula (I) in which:

-   DI is isophorone diisocyanate; -   PEG is a polyethylene glycol of molecular weight equal to 10,000; -   n=1; -   x=x′=40; -   y=y′=z=z′=0; -   R=R′=TSP.

Test 8:

This test illustrates the invention and uses 0.57% by dry weight, with respect to the total weight of the formulation, of a compound with formula (I) in which:

-   DI is isophorone diisocyanate; -   PEG is a polyethylene glycol of molecular weight equal to 10,000; -   n=1; -   x=x′=15; -   y=y′=z=z′=0; -   R=R′=DSP.

Test 9:

This test illustrates the invention and uses 0.57% by dry weight, with respect to the total weight of the formulation, of a compound with formula (I) in which:

-   DI is isophorone diisocyanate; -   PEG is a polyethylene glycol of molecular weight equal to 10,000; -   n=1; -   x=x′=7; -   y=y′=z=z′=0; -   R=R′=DSP.

Test 10:

This test illustrates a field outside the invention and uses 0.57% by dry weight, with respect to the total weight of the formulation, of a compound with formula (I) in which:

-   DI is isophorone diisocyanate; -   PEG is a polyethylene glycol of molecular weight equal to 10,000; -   n=1; -   x=x′=23; -   y=y′=z=z′=0; -   R=R′=linear alkyl chain with 12 carbon atoms.

Test 11:

This test illustrates a field outside the invention and uses 0.57% by dry weight, with respect to the total weight of the formulation, of a compound with formula (I) in which:

-   DI is isophorone diisocyanate; -   PEG is a polyethylene glycol of molecular weight equal to 10,000; -   n=1; -   x=x′=25; -   y=y′=z=z′=0; -   R=R′=linear alkyl chain consisting of a fraction of 16 to 18 carbon     atoms.

Test 12:

This test illustrates a field outside the invention and uses 0.57% by dry weight, with respect to the total weight of the formulation, of a compound with formula (I) in which:

-   DI is isophorone diisocyanate; -   PEG is a polyethylene glycol of molecular weight equal to 10,000; -   n=1; -   x=x′=20; -   y=y′=z=z′=0; -   R=R′=linear alkyl chain with 18 carbon atoms.

Test 13:

This test illustrates a field outside the invention and uses 0.57% by dry weight, with respect to the total weight of the formulation, of a compound with formula (I) in which:

-   DI is isophorone diisocyanate; -   PEG is a polyethylene glycol of molecular weight equal to 10,000; -   n=1; -   x=x′=25; -   y=y′=z=z′=0; -   R=R′=linear alkyl chain with 22 carbon atoms.

Test 14:

This test illustrates a field outside the invention and uses 0.57% by dry weight, with respect to the total weight of the formulation, of a compound with formula (I) in which:

-   DI is isophorone diisocyanate; -   PEG is a polyethylene glycol of molecular weight equal to 10,000; -   n=1; -   x=x′=25; -   y=y′=z=z′=0; -   R=R′=branched alkyl chain with 32 carbon atoms.

Test 15:

This test illustrates a field outside the invention and uses 0.57% by dry weight, with respect to the total weight of the formulation, of a compound with formula (I) in which:

-   DI is isophorone diisocyanate; -   PEG is a polyethylene glycol of molecular weight equal to 10,000; -   n=1; -   x=x′=30; -   y=y′=z=z′=0; -   R=R′=nonylphenyl group.

Test 16:

This test illustrates a field outside the invention and uses 0.57% by dry weight, with respect to the total weight of the formulation, of a compound with formula (I) in which:

-   DI is isophorone diisocyanate; -   PEG is a polyethylene glycol of molecular weight equal to 10,000; -   n=1; -   x=x′=20; -   y=y′=z=z′=0; -   R=R′=abietate group.

Test 17:

This test illustrates the invention and uses 0.57% by dry weight, with respect to the total weight of the formulation, of a compound with formula (I) in which:

-   DI is isophorone diisocyanate; -   PEG is a polyethylene glycol of molecular weight equal to 10,000; -   n=1; -   x=z′=8.3; -   x′=z=0; -   y=y′=12.8; -   R=R′=TSP.

Test 18:

This test illustrates a field outside the invention and uses 0.57% by dry weight, with respect to the total weight of the formulation, of a compound with formula (I) in which:

-   DI is isophorone diisocyanate; -   PEG is a polyethylene glycol of molecular weight equal to 10,000; -   n=1; -   x=x′=6.4; -   y=y′=z=z′=0; -   R=R′=beta-naphthyl group.

Test 19:

This test illustrates the invention and uses 0.57% by dry weight, with respect to the total weight of the formulation, of a compound with formula (I) in which:

-   DI is isophorone diisocyanate; -   PEG is a polyethylene glycol of molecular weight equal to 6,000; -   n=1; -   x=x′=1.3; -   y=y′=z=z′=0; -   R=R′=TSP.

Test 20:

This test illustrates the invention and uses 0.57% by dry weight, with respect to the total weight of the formulation, of a compound with formula (I) in which:

-   DI is isophorone diisocyanate; -   PEG is a polyethylene glycol of molecular weight equal to 8,000; -   n=1; -   x=x′=1.3; -   y=y′=z=z′=0; -   R=R′=TSP.

Test 21:

This test illustrates the invention and uses 0.57% by dry weight, with respect to the total weight of the formulation, of a compound with formula (I) in which:

-   DI is isophorone diisocyanate; -   PEG is a polyethylene glycol of molecular weight equal to 20,000; -   n=1; -   x=x′=1.3; -   y=y′=z=z′=0; -   R=R′=TSP.

Test 22:

This test illustrates the invention and uses 0.57% by dry weight, with respect to the total weight of the formulation, of a compound with formula (I) in which:

-   DI is toluene diisocyanate; -   PEG is a polyethylene glycol of molecular weight equal to 10,000; -   n=1; -   x=x′=1.3; -   y=y′=z=z′=0; -   R=R′=TSP.

All the Brookfield™ viscosity (at 10 and 100 rev/min.) and Stormer viscosity results, as well as the values of L and Delta E (ΔE), for pigmented base formulations and relating to the aforementioned tests are summed up in the following Tables 1a, 1b and 1c.

TABLE 1a Prior art Invention Invention Invention Invention Invention Invention Invention Invention TEST N° 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 Untreated water 276.9 272 272 272 272 272 272 272 272 Coatex P90 (40%) 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 Liquid ammonia (28%) 2.3 2.3 2.3 2.3 2.3 2.3 2.3 2.3 2.3 Byk 034 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 Monoethylene glycol 10.2 10.2 10.2 10.2 10.2 10.2 10.2 10.2 10.2 Mergal K6N 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 TiO2 RL 68 40 40 40 40 40 40 40 40 40 Hydrocarb 207 207 207 207 207 207 207 207 207 Durcal 2 316 316 316 316 316 316 316 316 316 Rhodopas DS 910 120 120 120 120 120 120 120 120 120 White Spirit 10.2 10.2 10.2 10.2 10.2 10.2 10.2 10.2 10.2 Thickeners C16 TSP TSP TSP TSP TSP TSP DSP DSP OE = 0 OE1 OE1.3 OE5 OE15 OE25 OE40 OE15 OE7 Quantity (g) 11.4 16.3 16.3 16.3 16.3 16.3 16.3 16.3 16.3 Total (g) 1000 1000 1000 1000 1000 1000 1000 1000 1000 % dry thickener/total 0.57 0.57 0.57 0.57 0.57 0.57 0.57 0.57 0.57 formulation pH 9.1 9.1 9.1 9.1 9.1 9.1 9.1 9.1 9.1 Brookfield viscosity (mPa · s) T = 24 h  10 rev/min 12300 17300 31500 12500 3600 2400 1300 1100 4800 100 rev/min 2800 5900 11400 5700 2700 1800 900 800 3500 Stormer visco. (KU) 107 122 >141 122 104 95 82 81 109 Brookfield viscosity (mPa · s) T = 1 week  10 rev/min 12400 17800 30900 11000 3700 2700 1400 1000 5300 100 rev/min 2800 5990 10100 5400 2600 1900 900 800 3600 Stormer visco. (KU) 104 124 >141 125 108 99 87 84 111 Brookfield viscosity (mPa · s) T = 1 week 50° C.  10 rev/min 12500 12400 27100 10900 3200 2100 1000 1100 5600 100 rev/min 3400 5100 9000 5100 2500 1500 700 800 3700 Stormer visco. (KU) 111 122 >141 124 106 97 84 87 118 Brookfield viscosity (mPa · s) T = 1 month  10 rev/min 12600 18100 32100 12900 3900 2600 1300 1200 6100 100 rev/min 2900 6000 12000 5600 2800 2000 1100 800 3700 Stormer visco. (KU) 106 125 >141 126 107 101 89 83 116 Brookfield viscosity (mPa · s) T = 1 month 50° C.  10 rev/min 13100 15600 33400 11600 3800 2900 1200 1400 6400 100 rev/min 3600 6200 11200 5200 2700 2100 800 900 3900 Stormer visco. (KU) 115 128 >141 127 110 103 88 91 121 Pigmentary compatibility (addition of 5% by weight of black pigmentary paste) Delta E 8.2 0.6 0.5 0.6 0.4 0.5 0.7 0.9 0.6 L 40.3 28.7 29.4 29.2 28.7 28.5 28.6 28.3 29.2

TABLE 1b Outside Outside Outside Outside Outside Outside Outside Outside invention invention invention invention invention invention invention Invention invention TEST N° 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 Untreated water 272 272 272 272 272 272 272 272 272 Coatex P90 (40%) 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 Liquid ammonia (28%) 2.3 2.3 2.3 2.3 2.3 2.3 2.3 2.3 2.3 Byk 034 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 Monoethylene glycol 10.2 10.2 10.2 10.2 10.2 10.2 10.2 10.2 10.2 Mergal K6N 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 TiO2 RL 68 40 40 40 40 40 40 40 40 40 Hydrocarb 207 207 207 207 207 207 207 207 207 Durcal 2 316 316 316 316 316 316 316 316 316 Rhodopas DS 910 120 120 120 120 120 120 120 120 120 White Spirit 10.2 10.2 10.2 10.2 10.2 10.2 10.2 10.2 10.2 Thickeners C12 C16C18 C18 C22 C32 NP30 Abietate TSPOE8.3 Beta N. OE23 OE25 OE20 OE25 OE25 OP 12.8 OE 6.4 Quantity (g) 16.3 16.3 16.3 16.3 16.3 16.3 16.3 16.3 16.3 Total (g) 1000 1000 1000 1000 1000 1000 1000 1000 1000 % dry thickener/total 0.57 0.57 0.57 0.57 0.57 0.57 0.57 0.57 0.57 formulation pH 9.1 9.1 9.1 9.1 9.1 9.1 9.1 9.1 9.1 Brookfield viscosity (mPa · s) T = 24 h  10 rev/min 1000 4100 29500 9700 400 600 400 1000 300 100 rev/min 500 2800 11300 2400 200 400 300 700 200 Stormer visco. (KU) 73 102 >141 100 63 69 64 72 63 Brookfield viscosity (mPa · s) T = 1 week  10 rev/min 1100 4600 30400 10100 400 700 500 1100 400 100 rev/min 600 2900 11600 2600 200 400 400 700 300 Stormer visco. (KU) 77 106 >141 110 65 71 69 74 65 Brookfield viscosity (mPa · s) T = 1 week 50° C.  10 rev/min 1300 4900 35400 12600 400 800 500 1300 400 100 rev/min 700 3200 13100 3100 300 400 300 800 200 Stormer visco. (KU) 81 110 >141 116 69 75 69 79 67 Brookfield viscosity (mPa · s) T = 1 month  10 rev/min 1200 5800 31800 11000 500 900 400 1100 600 100 rev/min 700 3300 12700 2800 200 500 300 900 400 Stormer visco. (KU) 79 117 >141 115 68 75 66 73 67 Brookfield viscosity (mPa · s) T = 1 month 50° C.  10 rev/min 1600 5300 37800 13100 500 1000 500 1200 500 100 rev/min 900 3400 14000 3300 400 600 300 900 300 Stormer visco. (KU) 85 113 >141 121 71 77 68 81 69 Pigmentary compatibility (addition of 5% by weight of black pigmentary paste) Delta E 1.2 1.5 1.1 2.4 2.1 0.7 0.5 0.8 0.6 L 27.4 29.0 30.2 33.7 30.2 26.6 28.3 27.6 28.8

TABLE 1c Invention Invention Invention Invention TEST N° 19 20 21 22 Untreated water 272 272 272 272 Coatex P90 (40%) 3 3 3 3 Liquid ammonia (28%) 2.3 2.3 2.3 2.3 Byk 034 1 1 1 1 Monoethylene glycol 10.2 10.2 10.2 10.2 Mergal K6N 2 2 2 2 TiO2 RL 68 40 40 40 40 Hydrocarb 207 207 207 207 Durcal 2 316 316 316 316 Rhodopas DS 910 120 120 120 120 White Spirit 10.2 10.2 10.2 10.2 Thickeners TSP TSP TSP TSP OE1.3 OE1.3 OE1.3 OE1.3 Quantity (g) 16.3 16.3 16.3 16.3 Total (g) 1000 1000 1000 1000 % dry thickener/total formulation 0.57 0.57 0.57 0.57 pH 9.6 9.6 9.6 9.6 Brookfield viscosity  10 rev/min 11300 26100 3800 1400 (mPa · s) 100 rev/min 3200 8700 2000 1100 T = 24 h Stormer visco. (KU) 113 141 92 81 Brookfield viscosity  10 rev/min 9000 22300 2300 1000 (mPa · s) 100 rev/min 2700 7100 1600 700 T = 1 week Stormer visco. (KU) 101 133 89 78 Brookfield viscosity  10 rev/min 9700 18500 2100 500 (mPa · s) 100 rev/min 2900 6300 1500 300 T = 1 week 50° C. Stormer visco. (KU) 105 137 91 72 Brookfield viscosity  10 rev/min 9100 22100 2400 1000 (mPa · s) 100 rev/min 2600 7200 1500 600 T = 1 month Stormer visco. (KU) 100 131 88 76 Brookfield viscosity  10 rev/min 10500 19700 1900 300 (mPa · s) 100 rev/min 3500 6300 1300 200 T = 1 month 50° C. Stormer visco. (KU) 107 138 92 70 Pigmentary compatibility (addition of 5% by weight of black pigmentary paste) Delta E 0.3 0.2 0.5 0.7 L 29.3 29.0 28.0 28.2

A reading of Tables 1a, 1b and 1c makes it possible to assign the notations ΔE_(matt) and η_(matt) to the different tests.

Thus,

-   -   for Test 1: the notation η_(matt) is equal to +1 and the         notation ΔE_(matt) is equal to −1 giving a total         (ΔE_(matt)+η_(matt)) equal to 0;     -   for Test 2: the notation η_(matt) is equal to +1 and the         notation ΔE_(matt) is equal to +1 giving a total         (ΔE_(matt)+η_(matt)) equal to 2;     -   for Test 3: the notation η_(matt) is equal to +1 and the         notation ΔE_(matt) is equal to +1 giving a total         (ΔE_(matt)+η_(matt)) equal to 2;     -   for Test 4: the notation η_(matt) is equal to +1 and the         notation ΔE_(matt) is equal to +1 giving a total         (ΔE_(matt)+η_(matt)) equal to 2;     -   for Test 5: the notation η_(matt) is equal to +1 and the         notation ΔE_(matt) is equal to +1 giving a total         (ΔE_(matt)+η_(matt)) equal to 2;     -   for Test 6: the notation η_(matt) is equal to 0 and the notation         ΔE_(matt) is equal to +1 giving a total (ΔE_(matt)+η_(matt))         equal to 1;     -   for Test 7: the notation η_(matt) is equal to 0 and the notation         ΔE_(matt) is equal to +1 giving a total (ΔE_(matt)+η_(matt))         equal to 1;     -   for Test 8: the notation η_(matt) is equal to 0 and the notation         ΔE_(matt) is equal to +1 giving a total (ΔE_(matt)+η_(matt))         equal to 1;     -   for Test 9: the notation η_(matt) is equal to +1 and the         notation ΔE_(matt) is equal to +1 giving a total         (ΔE_(matt)+η_(matt)) equal to 2;     -   for Test 10: the notation η_(matt) is equal to 0 and the         notation ΔE_(matt) is equal to 0 giving a total         (Δ_(matt)+η_(matt)) equal to 0;     -   for Test 11: the notation η_(matt) is equal to +1 and the         notation ΔE_(matt) is equal to 0 giving a total         (ΔE_(matt)+η_(matt)) equal to 1;     -   for Test 12: the notation η_(matt) is equal to +1 and the         notation ΔE_(matt) is equal to 0 giving a total         (ΔE_(matt)+η_(matt)) equal to +1;     -   for Test 13: the notation η_(matt) is equal to +1 and the         notation ΔE_(matt) is equal to −1 giving a total         (ΔE_(matt)+η_(matt)) equal to 0;     -   for Test 14: the notation η_(matt) is equal to −1 and the         notation ΔE_(matt) is equal to −1 giving a total         (ΔE_(matt)+η_(matt)) equal to −2;     -   for Test 15: the notation η_(matt) is equal to −1 and the         notation ΔE_(matt) is equal to +1 giving a total         (ΔE_(matt)+η_(matt)) equal to 0;     -   for Test 16: the notation η_(matt) is equal to −1 and the         notation ΔE_(matt) is equal to +1 giving a total         (ΔE_(matt)+η_(matt)) equal to 0;     -   for Test 17: the notation η_(matt) is equal to 0 and the         notation ΔE_(matt) is equal to +1 giving a total         (ΔE_(matt)+η_(matt)) equal to 1;     -   for Test 18: the notation η_(matt) is equal to −1 and the         notation ΔE_(matt) is equal to +1 giving a total         (ΔE_(matt)+η_(matt)) equal to 0;     -   for Test 19: the notation η_(matt) is equal to +1 and the         notation ΔE_(matt) is equal to +1 giving a total         (ΔE_(matt)+η_(matt)) equal to +2;     -   for Test 20: the notation η_(matt) is equal to +1 and the         notation ΔE_(matt) is equal to +1 giving a total         (ΔE_(matt)+η_(matt)) equal to +2;     -   for Test 21: the notation η_(matt) is equal to +1 and the         notation ΔE_(matt) is equal to +1 giving a total         (ΔE_(matt)+η_(matt)) equal to +2;     -   for Test 22: the notation η_(matt) is equal to 0 and the         notation ΔE_(matt) is equal to +1 giving a total         (ΔE_(matt)+η_(matt)) equal to +1.

EXAMPLE 2

The aim of this example is to reveal the rheological and pigmentary compatibility properties provided by the thickening agents according to the invention for silk finish formulations for paint, with solvent and at constant dosage.

These formulations for paints comprise the ingredients and additives listed in the first part of Tables 2a, 2b and 2c constituting the white base, and which persons skilled in the art will recognise.

In this first part of Tables 2a, 2b and 2c:

-   -   COATEX BR3 designates a polyacrylate type dispersant marketed by         COATEX under the name COATEX BR3.     -   Tego 1488 designates an antifoaming agent marketed by TEGO.     -   BDG designates butyldiglycol which is a coalescence agent.     -   MPG designates monopropylene glycol which is a coalescence         agent.     -   The product Mergal K6™ designates a biocide agent marketed by         TROY.     -   The product Hydrocarb™ is a known fine filler of the natural         CaCO₃ type, marketed by OMYA.     -   The product TiO₂ RHD2 is a titanium oxide marketed by ELEMENTIS.     -   Acronal 290D™ is a styrene-acrylic binder marketed by BASF.     -   Texanol marketed by EASTMAN CHEMICAL is a well-known petroleum         fraction which has a solvent function.

For each test, preparation was carried out of the aforementioned silk finish paint formulation, into which the thickening agent to be tested is added.

Then for each of the tests, the Brookfield™ and Stormer viscosity measurements of the formulation obtained are carried out according to the same conditions and the same equipment used in Example 1.

The same applies for the determination of the value of ΔE on the black pigmentary paste obtained by addition of 5% by weight of the same black pigmentary paste as in the previous example, on the white bases to be tested.

Test 23:

This test illustrates the prior art and uses 0.22% by dry weight, with respect to the total weight of the formulation, of a well-known polyurethane based on the condensation product of an alcohol having 16 carbon atoms, toluene diisocyanate and polyethylene glycol of molecular weight equal to 10,000.

Test 24:

This test illustrates the invention and uses 0.22% by dry weight, with respect to the total weight of the formulation, of a compound with formula (I) in which:

-   DI is isophorone diisocyanate; -   PEG is a polyethylene glycol of molecular weight equal to 10,000; -   n=1; -   x=x′=1; -   y=y′=z=z′=0; -   R=R′=TSP.

Test 25:

This test illustrates the invention and uses 0.22% by dry weight, with respect to the total weight of the formulation, of a compound with formula (I) in which:

-   DI is isophorone diisocyanate; -   PEG is a polyethylene glycol of molecular weight equal to 10,000; -   n=1; -   x=x′=1.3; -   y=y′=z=z′=0; -   R=R′=TSP.

Test 26:

This test illustrates the invention and uses 0.22% by dry weight, with respect to the total weight of the formulation, of a compound with formula (I) in which:

-   DI is isophorone diisocyanate; -   PEG is a polyethylene glycol of molecular weight equal to 10,000; -   n=1; -   x=x′=5; -   y=y′=z=z′=0; -   R=R′=TSP.

Test 27:

This test illustrates the invention and uses 0.22% by dry weight, with respect to the total weight of the formulation, of a compound with formula (I) in which:

-   DI is isophorone diisocyanate; -   PEG is a polyethylene glycol of molecular weight equal to 10,000; -   n=1; -   x=x′=15; -   y=y′=z=z′=0; -   R=R′=TSP.

Test 28:

This test illustrates the invention and uses 0.22% by dry weight, with respect to the total weight of the formulation, of a compound with formula (I) in which:

-   DI is isophorone diisocyanate; -   PEG is a polyethylene glycol of molecular weight equal to 10,000; -   n=1; -   x=x′=25; -   y=y′=z=z′=0; -   R=R′=TSP.

Test 29:

This test illustrates the invention and uses 0.22% by dry weight, with respect to the total weight of the formulation, of a compound with formula (I) in which:

-   DI is isophorone diisocyanate; -   PEG is a polyethylene glycol of molecular weight equal to 10,000; -   n=1; -   x=x′=40; -   y=y′=z=z′=0; -   R=R′=TSP.

Test 30:

This test illustrates the invention and uses 0.22% by dry weight, with respect to the total weight of the formulation, of a compound with formula (I) in which:

-   DI is isophorone diisocyanate; -   PEG is a polyethylene glycol of molecular weight equal to 10,000; -   n=1; -   x=x′=15; -   y=y′=z=z′=0; -   R=R′=DSP.

Test 31:

This test illustrates the invention and uses 0.22% by dry weight, with respect to the total weight of the formulation, of a compound with formula (I) in which:

-   DI is isophorone diisocyanate; -   PEG is a polyethylene glycol of molecular weight equal to 10,000; -   n=1; -   x=x′=7; -   y=y′=z=z′=0; -   R=R′=DSP.

Test 32:

This test illustrates a field outside the invention and uses 0.22% by dry weight, with respect to the total weight of the formulation, of a compound with formula (I) in which:

-   DI is isophorone diisocyanate; -   PEG is a polyethylene glycol of molecular weight equal to 10,000; -   n=1; -   x=x′=23; -   y=y′=z=z′=0; -   R=R′=linear alkyl chain with 12 carbon atoms.

Test 33:

This test illustrates a field outside the invention and uses 0.22% by dry weight, with respect to the total weight of the formulation, of a compound with formula (I) in which:

-   DI is isophorone diisocyanate; -   PEG is a polyethylene glycol of molecular weight equal to 10,000; -   n=1; -   x=x′=25; -   y=y′=z=z′=0; -   R=R′=linear alkyl chain consisting of a fraction of 16 to 18 carbon     atoms.

Test 34:

This test illustrates a field outside the invention and uses 0.22% by dry weight, with respect to the total weight of the formulation, of a compound with formula (I) in which:

-   DI is isophorone diisocyanate; -   PEG is a polyethylene glycol of molecular weight equal to 10,000; -   n=1; -   x=x′=20; -   y=y′=z=z′=0; -   R=R′=linear alkyl chain with 18 carbon atoms.

Test 35:

This test illustrates a field outside the invention and uses 0.22% by dry weight, with respect to the total weight of the formulation, of a compound with formula (I) in which:

-   DI is isophorone diisocyanate; -   PEG is a polyethylene glycol of molecular weight equal to 10,000; -   n=1; -   x=x′=25; -   y=y′=z=z′=0; -   R=R′=linear alkyl chain with 22 carbon atoms.

Test 36:

This test illustrates a field outside the invention and uses 0.22% by dry weight, with respect to the total weight of the formulation, of a compound with formula (I) in which:

-   DI is isophorone diisocyanate; -   PEG is a polyethylene glycol of molecular weight equal to 10,000; -   n=1; -   x=x′=25; -   y=y′=z=z′=0; -   R=R′=branched alkyl chain with 32 carbon atoms.

Test 37:

This test illustrates a field outside the invention and uses 0.22% by dry weight, with respect to the total weight of the formulation, of a compound with formula (1) in which:

-   DI is isophorone diisocyanate; -   PEG is a polyethylene glycol of molecular weight equal to 10,000; -   n=1; -   x=x′=30; -   y=y′=z=z′=0; -   R=R′=nonylphenyl group.

Test 38:

This test illustrates a field outside the invention and uses 0.22% by dry weight, with respect to the total weight of the formulation, of a compound with formula (I) in which:

-   DI is isophorone diisocyanate; -   PEG is a polyethylene glycol of molecular weight equal to 10,000; -   n=1; -   x=x′=20; -   y=y′=z=z′=0; -   R=R′=abietate group.

Test 39:

This test illustrates the invention and uses 0.22% by dry weight, with respect to the total weight of the formulation, of a compound with formula (I) in which:

-   DI is isophorone diisocyanate; -   PEG is a polyethylene glycol of molecular weight equal to 10,000; -   n=1; -   x=z′=8.3; -   x′=z=0; -   y=y′=12.8; -   R=R′=TSP.

Test 40:

This test illustrates a field outside the invention and uses 0.22% by dry weight, with respect to the total weight of the formulation, of a compound with formula (I) in which:

-   DI is isophorone diisocyanate; -   PEG is a polyethylene glycol of molecular weight equal to 10,000; -   n=1; -   x=x′=6.4; -   y=y′=z=z′=0; -   R=R′=beta-naphthyl group.

Test 41:

This test illustrates the invention and uses 0.22% by dry weight, with respect to the total weight of the formulation, of a compound with formula (I) in which:

-   DI is isophorone diisocyanate; -   PEG is a polyethylene glycol of molecular weight equal to 6,000; -   n=1; -   x=x′=1.3; -   y=y′=z=z′=0; -   R=R′=TSP.

Test 42:

This test illustrates the invention and uses 0.22% by dry weight, with respect to the total weight of the formulation, of a compound with formula (I) in which:

-   DI is isophorone diisocyanate; -   PEG is a polyethylene glycol of molecular weight equal to 8,000; -   n=1; -   x=x′=1.3; -   y=y′=z=z′=0; -   R=R′=TSP.

Test 43:

This test illustrates the invention and uses 0.22% by dry weight, with respect to the total weight of the formulation, of a compound with formula (I) in which:

-   DI is isophorone diisocyanate; -   PEG is a polyethylene glycol of molecular weight equal to 20,000; -   n=1; -   x=x′=1.3; -   y=y′=z=z′=0; -   R=R′=TSP.

Test 44:

This test illustrates the invention and uses 0.22% by dry weight, with respect to the total weight of the formulation, of a compound with formula (I) in which:

-   DI is toluene diisocyanate; -   PEG is a polyethylene glycol of molecular weight equal to 10,000; -   n=1; -   x=x′=1.3; -   y=y′=z=z′=0; -   R=R′=TSP.

All the Brookfield™ viscosity (at 10 and 100 rev/min.) and Stormer viscosity results, as well as the values of L and Delta E, for pigmented base formulations and relating to the aforementioned tests, are summed up in the following Tables 2a, 2b and 2c.

TABLE 2a Prior art Invention Invention Invention Invention Invention Invention Invention Invention TEST N° 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 Untreated water 135.5 133.6 133.6 133.6 133.6 133.6 133.6 133.6 133.6 Coatex BR3 (40%) 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 Tego 1488 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 B.D.G 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 M.P.G 15 15 15 15 15 15 15 15 15 Mergal K6N 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 TiO2 RHD2 200 200 200 200 200 200 200 200 200 Hydrocarb 150 150 150 150 150 150 150 150 150 Acronal 290D 450 450 450 450 450 450 450 450 450 Texanol 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 Thickeners C16 TSP TSP TSP TSP TSP TSP DSP DSP OE = 0 OE1 OE1.3 OE5 OE15 OE25 OE40 OE15 OE7 Quantity (g) 4.5 6.4 6.4 6.4 6.4 6.4 6.4 6.4 6.4 Total (g) 1000 1000 1000 1000 1000 1000 1000 1000 1000 % dry thickener/total 0.22 0.22 0.22 0.22 0.22 0.22 0.22 0.22 0.22 formulation pH 8.5 8.5 8.5 8.5 8.5 8.5 8.5 8.5 8.5 Brookfield viscosity (mPa · s) T = 24 h  10 rev/min 7700 14800 21600 10000 4100 3300 2400 2400 5300 100 rev/min 3500 6000 8700 4900 2000 1600 1100 1000 2600 Stormer visco. (KU) 106 125 140 121 97 92 82 80 101 Brookfield viscosity (mPa · s) T = 1 week  10 rev/min 7400 15200 22100 9800 4500 3600 2600 2900 5900 100 rev/min 3500 6000 8800 4900 2200 1700 1000 1100 2800 Stormer visco. (KU) 106 124 139 120 101 95 82 80 103 Brookfield viscosity (mPa · s) T = 1 week 50° C.  10 rev/min 8600 16700 23500 12100 5200 4100 3300 3600 6400 100 rev/min 3800 6700 9200 5500 2500 1800 1200 1300 3300 Stormer visco. (KU) 113 135 >141 130 106 100 86 83 107 Brookfield viscosity (mPa · s) T = 1 month  10 rev/min 7600 15400 22800 10200 4700 4000 3000 3100 6600 100 rev/min 3500 6100 8900 5000 2200 1900 1200 1200 3200 Stormer visco. (KU) 106 125 140 122 104 98 86 81 105 Brookfield viscosity (mPa · s) T = 1 month 50° C.  10 rev/min 8900 17400 25000 12800 5500 4700 3900 4400 7100 100 rev/min 4100 6900 9600 5500 2600 2000 1500 1400 3500 Stormer visco. (KU) 115 140 >141 131 110 105 91 89 111 Pigmentary compatibility (addition of 5% by weight of black pigmentary paste) Delta E 16.2 0.4 0.4 0.5 0.4 1.1 1.3 1.3 0.7 L 58.1 39.9 39.5 39.6 38.6 38.8 38.7 38.8 39.2

TABLE 2b Outside Outside Outside Outside Outside Outside Outside Outside invention invention invention invention invention invention invention Invention invention TEST N° 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 Untreated water 133.6 133.6 133.6 133.6 133.6 133.6 133.6 133.6 133.6 Coatex BR3 (40%) 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 Tego 1488 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 B.D.G 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 M.P.G 15 15 15 15 15 15 15 15 15 Mergal K6N 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 TiO2 RHD2 200 200 200 200 200 200 200 200 200 Hydrocarb 150 150 150 150 150 150 150 150 150 Acronal 290D 450 450 450 450 450 450 450 450 450 Texanol 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 Thickeners C12 C16C18 C18 C22 C32 NP30 Abiétate TSPOE8.3 Béta N. OE23 OE25 OE20 OE25 OE25 OP 12.8 OE 6.4 Quantity (g) 6.4 6.4 6.4 6.4 6.4 6.4 6.4 6.4 6.4 Total (g) 1000 1000 1000 1000 1000 1000 1000 1000 1000 % dry thickener/total 0.22 0.22 0.22 0.22 0.22 0.22 0.22 0.22 0.22 formulation pH 8.5 8.5 8.5 8.5 8.5 8.5 8.5 8.5 8.5 Brookfield viscosity (mPa · s) T = 24 h  10 rev/min 1600 2400 6300 6600 3300 1300 1100 2700 1200 100 rev/min 600 1300 3200 2100 800 500 400 1400 400 Stormer visco. (KU) 70 83 106 91 70 65 63 84 68 Brookfield viscosity (mPa · s) T = 1 week  10 rev/min 1700 2800 7100 7300 3400 1700 1300 2700 1400 100 rev/min 650 1300 3400 2200 1000 800 500 1500 500 Stormer visco. (KU) 72 84 106 92 74 71 66 84 71 Brookfield viscosity (mPa · s) T = 1 week 50° C.  10 rev/min 2200 3500 7900 10200 5000 1700 1500 3600 2100 100 rev/min 800 1600 3600 2600 1100 600 500 1700 700 Stormer visco. (KU) 77 90 114 99 76 68 66 92 75 Brookfield viscosity (mPa · s) T = 1 month  10 rev/min 2100 3400 8000 8100 3700 1900 1400 3100 1500 100 rev/min 800 1700 3600 2400 1100 800 500 1500 500 Stormer visco. (KU) 74 89 110 98 76 73 67 85 74 Brookfield viscosity (mPa · s) T = 1 month 50° C.  10 rev/min 2600 4200 8300 12600 5800 2200 1700 4400 2700 100 rev/min 900 1900 3700 2900 1400 800 600 1900 800 Stormer visco. (KU) 81 96 119 110 83 70 69 101 81 Pigmentary compatibility (addition of 5% by weight of black pigmentary paste) Delta E 1 1.7 13.4 23.2 13 1.4 1.8 1.2 1.3 L 38.5 40.5 52.9 62.4 53.4 38.3 37.8 38.9 38.6

TABLE 2c Invention Invention Invention Invention TEST N° 41 42 43 44 Untreated water 133.6 133.6 133.6 133.6 Coatex BR3 (40%) 5 5 5 5 Tego 1488 2 2 2 2 B.D.G 25 25 25 25 M.P.G 15 15 15 15 Mergal K6N 3 3 3 3 TiO2 RHD2 200 200 200 200 Hydrocarb 150 150 150 150 Acronal 290D 450 450 450 450 Texanol 10 10 10 10 Thickeners TSP TSP TSP TSP OE1.3 OE1.3 OE1.3 OE1.3 Quantity (g) 6.4 6.4 6.4 6.4 Total (g) 1000 1000 1000 1000 % dry thickener/total formulation 0.22 0.22 0.22 0.22 pH 8.4 8.4 8.4 8.4 Brookfield viscosity  10 rev/min 20700 24800 6800 5300 (mPa · s) 100 rev/min 7600 9300 2800 2300 T = 24 h Stormer visco. (KU) 137 >141 101 98 Brookfield viscosity  10 rev/min 20200 26300 7400 5900 (mPa · s) 100 rev/min 7400 9200 2900 2600 T = 1 week Stormer visco. (KU) 139 >141 102 100 Brookfield viscosity  10 rev/min 21500 24700 8100 5800 (mPa · s) 100 rev/min 7400 9100 3100 2300 T = 1 week 50° C. Stormer visco. (KU) >141 >141 108 102 Brookfield viscosity  10 rev/min 20500 27200 7700 5800 (mPa · s) 100 rev/min 7400 9300 3100 2700 T = 1 month Stormer visco. (KU) 138 >141 103 101 Brookfield viscosity  10 rev/min 22400 25100 8500 5800 (mPa · s) 100 rev/min 7600 9200 3200 2400 T = 1 month 50° C. Stormer visco. (KU) >141 >141 108 102 Pigmentary compatibility (addition of 5% by weight of black pigmentary paste) Delta E 0.6 0.4 0.3 0.1 L 37.5 36.6 35.4 36.0

A reading of Tables 2a, 2b and 2c makes it possible to assign the notations ΔE_(silk) and η_(silk) to the different tests.

Thus,

-   -   for Test 23: the notation η_(silk) is equal to +1 and the         notation ΔE_(silk) is equal to −1 giving a total         (ΔE_(silk)+η_(silk)) equal to 0;     -   for Test 24: the notation η_(silk) is equal to +1 and the         notation ΔE_(silk) is equal to +1 giving a total         (ΔE_(silk)+η_(silk)) equal to +2;     -   for Test 25: the notation η_(silk) is equal to +1 and the         notation ΔE_(silk) is equal to +1 giving a total         (ΔE_(silk)+η_(silk)) equal to +2;     -   for Test 26: the notation η_(silk) is equal to +1 and the         notation ΔE_(silk) is equal to +1 giving a total         (ΔE_(silk)+η_(silk)) equal to +2;     -   for Test 27: the notation η_(matt) is equal to +1 and the         notation Δ_(matt) is equal to +1 giving a total         (ΔE_(matt)+η_(matt)) equal to +2;     -   for Test 28: the notation η_(silk) is equal to +1 and the         notation ΔE_(silk) is equal to +1 giving a total         (ΔE_(silk)+η_(silk)) equal to 2;     -   for Test 29: the notation η_(silk) is equal to +1 and the         notation ΔE_(silk) is equal to +1 giving a total         (ΔE_(silk)+η_(silk)) equal to 2;     -   for Test 30: the notation η_(silk) is equal to +1 and the         notation ΔE_(silk) is equal to +1 giving a total         (ΔE_(silk)+η_(silk)) equal to 2;     -   for Test 31: the notation η_(silk) is equal to +1 and the         notation ΔE_(silk) is equal to +1 giving a total         (ΔE_(silk)+η_(silk)) equal to 2;     -   for Test 32: the notation η_(silk) is equal to 0 and the         notation ΔE_(silk) is equal to +1 giving a total         (ΔE_(silk)+η_(silk)) equal to 1;     -   for Test 33: the notation η_(silk) is equal to +1 and the         notation ΔE_(silk) is equal to 0 giving a total         (ΔE_(silk)+η_(silk)) equal to 1;     -   for Test 34: the notation η_(silk) is equal to +1 and the         notation ΔE_(silk) is equal to −1 giving a total         (ΔE_(silk)+η_(silk)) equal to 0;     -   for Test 35: the notation η_(silk) is equal to +1 and the         notation ΔE_(silk) is equal to −1 giving a total         (ΔE_(silk)+η_(silk)) equal to 0;     -   for Test 36: the notation η_(silk) is equal to +1 and the         notation ΔE_(silk) is equal to −1 giving a total         (ΔE_(silk)+η_(silk)) equal to 0;     -   for Test 37: the notation η_(silk) is equal to 0 and the         notation ΔE_(silk) is equal to +1 giving a total         (ΔE_(silk)+η_(silk)) equal to 1;     -   for Test 38: the notation η_(silk) is equal to 0 and the         notation ΔE_(silk) is equal to 0 giving a total         (ΔE_(silk)+η_(silk)) equal to 0;     -   for Test 39: the notation η_(silk) is equal to +1 and the         notation Δ_(silk) is equal to +1 giving a total         (ΔE_(silk)+η_(silk)) equal to 2;     -   for Test 40: the notation η_(silk) is equal to 0 and the         notation ΔE_(silk) is equal to +1 giving a total         (ΔE_(silk)+η_(silk)) equal to 1;     -   for Test 41: the notation η_(silk) is equal to +1 and the         notation ΔE_(silk) is equal to +1 giving a total         (ΔE_(silk)+η_(silk)) equal to +2;     -   for Test 42: the notation η_(silk) is equal to +1 and the         notation ΔE_(silk) is equal to +1 giving a total         (ΔE_(silk)+η_(silk)) equal to +2;     -   for Test 43: the notation η_(silk) is equal to +1 and the         notation ΔE_(silk) is equal to +1 giving a total         (ΔE_(silk)+η_(silk)) equal to +2;     -   for Test 44: the notation η_(silk) is equal to +1 and the         notation ΔE_(silk) is equal to +1 giving a total         (ΔE_(silk)+η_(silk)) equal to +2.

The sum of the totals of the notations of Example 1 relating to matt paints and of Example 2 relating to silk finish paints is summed up in the following Table 3.

TABLE 3 MATT PAINT SILK FINISH PAINT TOTAL x + y + z = η matt ΔE matt η silk ΔE silk (η matt + ΔE matt) + R GROUP x′ + y′ + z′ Test n° notation notation Test n° notation notation (η silk + ΔE silk) Prior art C₁₆ 0 1 +1 −1 19 +1 −1 0 Invention TSP 1 2 +1 +1 20 +1 +1 +4 Invention TSP 1.3 3 +1 +1 21 +1 +1 +4 Invention TSP 5 4 +1 +1 22 +1 +1 +4 Invention TSP 15 5 +1 +1 23 +1 +1 +4 Invention TSP 25 6 0 +1 24 +1 +1 +3 Invention TSP 40 7 0 +1 25 +1 +1 +3 Invention DSP 15 8 0 +1 26 +1 +1 +3 Invention DSP 7 9 +1 +1 27 +1 +1 +4 Outside Invention C₁₂ 23 10 0 0 28 0 +1 +1 Outside Invention C₁₆C₁₈ 25 11 +1 0 29 +1 0 +2 Outside Invention C₁₈ 20 12 +1 0 30 +1 −1 +1 Outside Invention C₂₂ 25 13 +1 −1 31 +1 −1 0 Outside Invention C₃₂ 25 14 −1 −1 32 +1 −1 −2 Outside Invention NP 30 15 −1 +1 33 0 +1 +1 Outside Invention Abietate 20 16 −1 +1 34 0 0 0 Invention TSP 21.1 17 0 +1 35 +1 +1 +3 Outside Invention β naphthyl 6.4 18 −1 +1 36 0 +1 +1

A reading of Table 3 makes it possible to see that only the polyurethanes functionalised with groups containing at least three aromatic cycles, that is to say only compounds fitting the formula (I) in which R and R′ are hydrocarbon groups having at least three aromatic cycles, substituted or not, make it possible to develop viscosities at important small shear stress gradient without losing pigmentary compatibility, this property being retained whether matt paint or silk finish paint is concerned.

Tests 1–23, 10–32, 11–33, 12–34, 13–35, 14–36, 15–37, 16–38 and 18–40 do not make it possible to achieve the strictly defined criteria (total of notations less than 3) whereas the tests of the invention 2–24, 3–25, 4–26, 5–27, 6–28, 7–29, 8–30, 9–31, 17–39, 19–41, 20–42, 21–43 and 22–44 meet the said criteria (total of notations greater than or equal to 3).

EXAMPLE 3

The aim of this example is to reveal the rheological and pigmentary compatibility properties provided by the thickening agents according to the invention for matt formulations for paint, with solvent at variable dosage and constant rheology.

To do this, for the formulations appearing in Table 4 which follows, the operating methods and equipment used in the various tests of this example are identical to those used in Example 1.

Test 45:

This test illustrates the invention and uses 0.60% by dry weight, with respect to the total weight of the formulation, of a compound with formula (I) in which:

-   DI is hexamethylene diisocyanate; -   PEG is a polyethylene glycol of molecular weight equal to 10,000; -   n=1; -   x=x′=1.3; -   y=y′=z=z′=0; -   R=R′=TSP.

Test 46:

This test illustrates the invention and uses 0.75% by dry weight, with respect to the total weight of the formulation, of a compound with formula (I) in which:

-   DI is toluene diisocyanate; -   PEG is a polyethylene glycol of molecular weight equal to 10,000; -   n=1; -   x=x′=1.3; -   y=y′=z=z′=0; -   R=R′=TSP.

Test 47:

This test illustrates the invention and uses 0.56% by dry weight, with respect to the total weight of the formulation, of a compound with formula (I) in which:

-   DI is isophorone diisocyanate; -   PEG is a polyethylene glycol of molecular weight equal to 20,000; -   n=1; -   x=x′=1.3; -   y=y′=z=z′=0; -   R=R′=TSP.

Test 48:

This test illustrates the invention and uses 0.13% by dry weight, with respect to the total weight of the formulation, of a compound with formula (I) in which:

-   DI is isophorone diisocyanate; -   PEG is a polyethylene glycol of molecular weight equal to 10,000; -   n=1; -   x=x′=1.3; -   y=y′=z=z′=0; -   R=R′=TSP.

All the Brookfield™ viscosity (at 10 and 100 rev/min.) and Stormer viscosity results, as well as the values of L and Delta E, for pigmented base formulations and relating to the aforementioned tests, are summed up in the following Table 4.

TABLE 4 Invention Invention Invention Invention TEST N° 45 46 47 48 Untreated water 271.3 266.8 272.3 284.5 Coatex P90 (40%) 3 3 3 3 NH4OH 2.3 2.3 2.3 2.3 Mergal K6N 2 2 2 2 Byk 034 1 1 1 1 TiO2 RL 68 40 40 40 40 Hydrocarb 207 207 207 207 Durcal 2 316 316 316 316 Rhodopas DS 910 120 120 120 120 Monoethylene glycol 10.2 10.2 10.2 10.2 White Spirit 10.2 10.2 10.2 10.2 Thickeners TSP OE1.3 TSP OE1.3 TSP OE1.3 TSP OE1.3 HDI TDI IPDI IPDI PEG 10000 PEG 10000 PEG 20000 PEG 10000 Quantity of thickener (g) 17 21.5 16 3.8 Total (g) 1000 1000 1000 1000 % dry thickener/total formulation 0.6 0.75 0.56 0.13 pH 9.6 9.6 9.6 9.6 Brookfield viscosity  10 rev/min 2700 2500 2800 3700 (mPa · s) 100 rev/min 2100 1500 1700 900 T = 24 h Stormer visco. (KU) 97 89 88 71 Brookfield viscosity  10 rev/min 3200 3300 3100 4600 (mPa · s) 100 rev/min 2400 2100 1700 1200 T = 1 week Stormer visco. (KU) 100 86 89 78 Brookfield viscosity  10 rev/min 3500 3400 2900 3900 (mPa · s) 100 rev/min 2600 2500 1800 1000 T = week 50° C. Stormer visco. (KU) 104 91 92 76 Brookfield viscosity  10 rev/min 2800 2400 2700 3200 (mPa · s) 100 rev/min 2000 1500 1500 1000 T = 1 month Stormer visco. (KU) 96 88 86 75 Brookfield viscosity  10 rev/min 3100 3200 2800 3100 (mPa · s) 100 rev/min 2400 2100 1700 800 T = 1 month 50° C. Stormer visco. (KU) 102 90 89 75 Pigmentary compatibility (addition of 5% by weight of black pigmentary paste) Delta E 0.3 0.4 1.4 0.3 L 31.9 32.0 30.2 32.8

A reading of Table 4 makes it possible to assign the notations ΔE_(matt) and η_(matt) to the different tests.

Thus,

-   -   for Test 45: the notation η_(matt) is equal to 0 and the         notation ΔE_(matt) is equal to +1 giving a total         (ΔE_(matt)+η_(matt)) equal to +1;     -   for Test 46: the notation η_(matt) is equal to 0 and the         notation ΔE_(matt) is equal to +1 giving a total         (ΔE_(matt)+η_(matt)) equal to +1;     -   for Test 47: the notation η_(matt) is equal to 0 and the         notation ΔE_(matt) is equal to +1 giving a total         (ΔE_(matt)+η_(matt)) equal to +1;     -   for Test 48: the notation η_(matt) is equal to +1 and the         notation ΔE_(matt) is equal to +1 giving a total         (ΔE_(matt)+η_(matt)) equal to +2;

EXAMPLE 4

The aim of this example is to reveal the Theological and pigmentary compatibility properties provided by the thickening agents according to the invention for silk finish formulations for paint, with solvent at variable dosage and constant rheology.

To do this, for the formulations appearing in Table 5 which follows, the operating methods and equipment used in the various tests of this example are identical to those used in Example 2.

Test 49:

This test illustrates the invention and uses 0.12% by dry weight, with respect to the total weight of the formulation, of a compound with formula (I) in which:

-   DI is hexamethylene diisocyanate; -   PEG is a polyethylene glycol of molecular weight equal to 10,000; -   n=1; -   x=x′=1.3; -   y=y′=z=z′=0; -   R=R′=TSP.

Test 50:

This test illustrates the invention and uses 0.12% by dry weight, with respect to the total weight of the formulation, of a compound with formula (I) in which:

-   DI is toluene diisocyanate; -   PEG is a polyethylene glycol of molecular weight equal to 10,000; -   n=1; -   x=x′=1.3; -   y=y′=z=z′=0; -   R=R′=TSP.

Test 5 1:

This test illustrates the invention and uses 0.105% by dry weight, with respect to the total weight of the formulation, of a compound with formula (I) in which:

-   DI is isophorone diisocyanate; -   PEG is a polyethylene glycol of molecular weight equal to 20,000; -   x=x′=1.3; -   y=y′=z=z′=0; -   R=R′=TSP.

Test 52:

This test illustrates the invention and uses 0.04% by dry weight, with respect to the total weight of the formulation, of a compound with formula (I) in which:

-   DI is isophorone diisocyanate; -   PEG is a polyethylene glycol of molecular weight equal to 10,000; -   n=1; -   x=x′=1.3; -   y=y′=z=z′=0; -   R=R′=TSP.

All the Brookfield™ viscosity (at 10 and 100 rev/min.) and Stormer viscosity results, as well as the values of L and Delta E, for pigmented base formulations and relating to the aforementioned tests, are summed up in the following Table 5.

TABLE 5 Invention Invention Invention Invention TEST N° 49 50 51 52 Untreated water 136.5 136.5 137 135 Coatex BR 3 (40%) 5 5 5 5 Tego 1488 2 2 2 2 B.D.G. 25 25 25 25 M.P.G. 15 15 15 15 Mergal K6N 3 3 3 3 TiO2 RHD2 200 200 200 200 Hydrocarb 150 150 150 150 Acronal 290D 450 450 450 450 Texanol 10 10 10 10 Thickeners TSP OE1.3 TSP OE1.3 TSP OE1.3 TSP OE1.3 HDI TDI IPDI IPDI PEG 10000 PEG 10000 PEG 20000 PEG 10000 Quantity of thickener (g) 3.5 3.5 3 1 Total (g) 1000 1000 1000 1000 % dry thickener/total formulation 0.12 0.12 0.105 0.04 pH 8.4 8.4 8.4 8.4 Brookfield viscosity  10 rev/min 3100 2700 3000 3100 (mPa · s) 100 rev/min 1500 1100 1200 1200 T = 24 h Stormer visco. (KU) 85 79 80 81 Brookfield viscosity  10 rev/min 3400 3100 3300 3200 (mPa · s) 100 rev/min 1700 1200 1300 1300 T = 1 week Stormer visco. (KU) 86 80 81 81 Brookfield viscosity  10 rev/min 4100 3400 4000 3700 (mPa · s) 100 rev/min 1900 1200 1400 1400 T = 1 week 50° C. Stormer visco. (KU) 92 85 87 86 Brookfield viscosity  10 rev/min 3500 3500 3400 3300 (mPa · s) 100 rev/min 1800 1300 1400 1300 T = 1 month Stormer visco. (KU) 86 81 82 81 Brookfield viscosity  10 rev/min 4400 3600 4200 3800 (mPa · s) 100 rev/min 2000 1200 1500 1500 T = 1 month 50° C. Stormer visco. (KU) 91 84 88 87 Pigmentary compatibility (addition of 5% by weight of black pigmentary paste) Delta E 0.4 0.4 0.2 0.4 L 35.1 35.9 35.0 35.0

A reading of Table 5 makes it possible to assign the notations Δ_(matt) and η_(matt) matt to the different tests.

Thus,

-   -   for Test 49: the notation η_(silk) is equal to +1 and the         notation ΔE_(silk) is equal to +1 giving a total         (ΔE_(silk)+η_(silk)) equal to +2;     -   for Test 50: the notation η_(silk) is equal to +1 and the         notation ΔE_(silk) is equal to +1 giving a total         (ΔE_(silk)+η_(silk)) equal to +2;     -   for Test 51: the notation η_(silk) is equal to +1 and the         notation ΔE_(silk) is equal to +1 giving a total         (ΔE_(silk)+η_(silk)) equal to +2;     -   for Test 52: the notation η_(silk) is equal to +1 and the         notation ΔE_(silk) is equal to +1 giving a total         (ΔE_(silk)+η_(silk)) equal to +2;

The sum of the totals of the notations of Example 3 relating to matt paints and of Example 4 relating to silk finish paints is summed up in the following Table 6.

TABLE 6 MATT PAINT SILK FINISH PAINT TOTAL x + y + z = η matt ΔE matt η silk ΔE silk (η matt + ΔE matt) + R GROUP x′ + y′ + z′ Test n° notation notation Test n° notation notation (η silk + ΔE silk) Invention TSP 1.3 45 0 +1 49 +1 +1 +3 Invention TSP 1.3 46 0 +1 50 +1 +1 +3 Invention TSP 1.3 47 0 +1 51 +1 +1 +3 Invention TSP 1.3 48 +1 +1 52 +1 +1 +4

A reading of Table 6 makes it possible to see that the compounds according to the invention make it possible to achieve the strictly defined criteria for different doses and more particularly for doses varying from 0.1% to 2% by dry weight of the said thickening compound with respect to the total mass of the composition.

The invention also covers all the embodiments and all the applications which will be directly accessible to persons skilled in the art from a reading of the present application, from their own knowledge, and possibly from simple routine tests. 

1. A method of thickening an aqueous composition, comprising: adding a thickener compound that contains polyalkylene oxide units to an aqueous composition that contains a filler, a pigment or a combination thereof and is white or colored in coloration, said thickener compound being formed by the reaction of the reactive isocyanate groups in a polyisocyanate compound with the hydroxyl groups of polyalkylene oxide compounds and having hydrocarbon groups, each comprised of at least three aromatic rings, on the termini of the polyalkylene oxide units, the thickener compound providing excellent pigmentary compatibility and a high viscosity thickened composition at small and medium shear stress gradients, and the resulting aqueous composition, as a pigmented composition for incorporation into paint formulations, results in a maff or silk finish of a painted object.
 2. The method according to claim 1, wherein the thickener compound has formula (I) as follows: R—O—(OE)_(x)—(OP)_(y)—(OE)_(z)—O—DI—(—PEG—DI—)_(n)—O—(OE)_(x′)—(OP)_(y′)—(OE)_(z)—(O—R′ wherein R and R′ are hydrocarbon groups comprised of at least three aromatic rings and are different or identical; DI is the residue of a diisocyanate compound and PEG is a polyethylene glycol group of a molecular weight ranging from 6,000 to 20,000, wherein one of the isocyanate groups of a DI unit reacts with a terminal alcohol functional group of the PEG molecule and an isocyanate group of the remaining DI unit reacts with the remaining terminal alcohol functional group of the PEG molecule, thereby forming bonding urethane groups; n ranges from 1 to 40; x, z, x′, z′ each range from 1 to 40; y and y′ each range from 0 to 40; with x+y+z+x′+y′+z′ ranging from 2 to
 80. 3. The method according to claim 1, wherein the DI unit is based on a diisocyanate reactant selected from the group consisting of toluene diisocyanate, isophorone diisocyanate and hexamethylene diisocyanate.
 4. The method according to claim 2, wherein the PEG component has a molecular weight ranging from 6,000 to 15,000.
 5. The method according to claim 4, wherein the PEG component has a molecular weight of about 10,000.
 6. The method according to claim 2, wherein the value of n is close to
 1. 7. The method according to claim 2, wherein the R and R′ groups are each a tristyryiphenyl (TSP) group having the formula:

with x+x′+y+y′+z+z′ ranges from 2 to 80, or is a distyryiphenyl (DSP) group having the formula:


8. The method according to claim 7, wherein the R and R′ groups are each TSP and x+y+z+x′+y′+z′ ranges from 2 to 50 with y=y′=z=z′=0.
 9. The method according to claim 7, wherein x=x′=1.3.
 10. The method according to claim 7, wherein n=x=x′=1 and y=y′=z=z′=0.
 11. The method according to claim 7, wherein the R and R′ groups are substituted by a substituent selected from the group consisting of phenyl, benzyl and linear or branched alkyl.
 12. The method according to claim 11, wherein the substituent or substituents are substituted on the aromatic rings.
 13. The method according to claim 7, wherein the tristyrylphenyl (TSP) is itself substituted by a styryl group thereby forming a tetrastyrylphenyl group.
 14. The method according to claim 7, wherein the tristyryiphenyl (TSP) group is substituted on a styryl group by a cyclohexanyl group.
 15. A non-ionic thickener, comprising: a thickener compound formed by the reaction of the reactive isocyanate groups in a polyisocyanate compound with the hydroxyl groups of polyalkylene oxide compounds and having hydrocarbon groups, each comprised of at least three aromatic rings, on the termini of the polyalkylene oxide units, wherein the thickener compound has formula (I) as follows: R—O—(OE)_(x)—(OP)_(y)—(OE)_(z)—O—DI—(—PEG—DI—)_(n)—O—(OE)_(x′)—(OP)_(y′—(OE)) _(z)—O—R′ wherein R and R′ are hydrocarbon groups comprised of at least three aromatic rings and are different or identical; DI is the residue of a diisocyanate compound and PEG is a polyethylene glycol group of a molecular weight ranging from 6,000 to 20,000, wherein one of the isocyanate groups of a DI unit reacts with a terminal alcohol functional group of the PEG molecule and an isocyanate group of the remaining DI unit reacts with the remaining terminal alcohol functional group of the PEG molecule, thereby forming bonding urethane groups; wherein n=x=x′=1 and y=y′=z=z′=0.
 16. The non-ionic thickener according to claim 15, wherein R and R′ are hydrocarbon groups comprised of at least three aromatic rings and are identical.
 17. The non-ionic thickener according to claim 15, wherein the DI unit is based on a diisocyanate reactant selected from the group consisting of toluene diisocyanate, isophorone diisocyanate and hexamethylene diisocyanate.
 18. The non-ionic thickener according to claim 15, wherein the PEG component has a molecular weight ranging from 6,000 to 15,000.
 19. The non-ionic thickener according to claim 15, wherein the PEG component has a molecular weight of about 10,000.
 20. The non-ionic thickener according to claim 15, wherein the PEG component has a molecular weight of about 6,000 to 8,000.
 21. The non-ionic thickener according to claim 15, wherein the R and R′ groups are each a tristyrylphenyl (TSP) group having the formula:

or is a distyrylphenyl (DSP) group having the formula:


22. The non-ionic thickener according to claim 21, wherein the R and R′ groups are each TSP.
 23. The non-ionic thickener according to claim 21, wherein the R and R′ groups are each DSP.
 24. The non-ionic thickener according to claim 15, wherein R and R′ are hydrocarbon groups comprising at least three aromatic rings which are different.
 25. The non-ionic thickener according to claim 15, wherein the R and R′ groups are substituted by a substituent selected from the group consisting of phenyl, benzyl and linear or branched alkyl.
 26. The non-ionic thickener according to claim 15, wherein the substituent or substituents are substituted on the aromatic rings.
 27. The non-ionic thickener according to claim 21, wherein the tristyrylphenyl (TSP) is itself substituted by a styryl group thereby forming a tetrastyrylphenyl group.
 28. A method of thickening an aqueous composition, comprising: adding a thickener compound that contains polyalkylene oxide units to an aqueous composition that contains a filler, a pigment or a combination thereof and is white or colored in coloration, said thickener compound having the formula: R—O—(OE)_(x)—(OP)_(y)—(OE)_(z)—O—DI—(—PEG—DI)_(n)—O—(OE)_(x′)—(OP)_(y′)(OE)_(z)—O—R′ wherein the R and R′ groups are each a tristyrylphenyl (TSP) group having the formula:

wherein the TSP group is substituted on a styryl group by a cyclohexanyl group, DI is the residue of a diisocyanate compound and PEG is a polyethylene glycol group of a molecular weight ranging from 6,000 to 20,000, wherein one of the isocyanate groups of a DI unit reacts with a terminal alcohol functional group of the PEG molecule and an isocyanate group of the remaining DI unit reacts with the remaining terminal alcohol functional group of the PEG molecule, thereby forming bonding urethane groups; n ranges from 1 to 40; x, z, x′, z′ each range from 1 to 40; y and y′ each range from 0 to 40; with x+y+z+x′+y′+z′ ranging from 2 to 80, the thickener compound providing excellent pigmentary compatibility and a high viscosity thickened composition at small and medium shear stress gradients, and the resulting aqueous composition, as a pigmented composition for incorporation into paint formulations, results in a matt or silk finish of a painted object.
 29. An aqueous composition containing a filler, a pigment or a combination thereof and the thickening compound of claim 15, in an amount ranging from 0.1 to 2% by dry weight, based on the total weight of the composition.
 30. The aqueous composition according to claim 29, wherein the amount of said thickening compound ranges from 0.2 to 1.0% by dry weight. 